Developed by Phil Terry as a community service, the goal of borrow a book (online) is to bring millions of Americans back to the public libraries. How? By showing Americans that most U.S. public libraries have dramatically improved the book borrowing experience.

Most U.S. public libraries now allow cardholders to go online to:

Search online for a book at your local library

Reserve a library book online

Transfer a library book to the nearest branch location for convenient pickup

Add, renew online

It is MUCH easier to borrow a book today

In other words, libraries have erased much of the pain and frustration associated with borrowing a book. No more walking into a library wondering if the library has a book, no more difficult renewal process or late fees, no more intra-library transfer hassles.

Instead, most Americans with Internet access and a library card, can order library books from their local library like they order books from an online bookseller. Even better the library does not charge for the service and typically sends an email when the book is ready for pickup. The online borrower then only has to walk to a local branch to checkout the book.

We recognize that many companies are working to make books available electronically, or to employ other more advanced technologies. However, most Americans still prefer to read books in paper form and the libraries are still a great resource - hidden to many Americans who could benefit and support them.

Public libraries could have millions more patrons - indeed, patrons they used to have - if more Americans knew they could order library books online this easily.

That's where Borrow a Book comes in. This simple and focused website lists all U.S. public libraries and their online borrowing features - and, in so doing, Borrow a Book potentially makes millions of people aware of how easy it is to order a library book online.

Can you help us in our mission to spread the word about libraries and the new ease of borrowing books?

Would you like to promote Borrow a Book?
	The best thing you can do is to promote this site and its message to your friends and family - tell them about Borrow a Book and encourage them to start using their local library again (if they aren't using it now).
Would you like to financially support your local library?
	You can also financially support your local library. Libraries are a critical part of our culture - bringing literacy, storytelling and community to our lives. Go to your local library's website to make a contribution (go back to the home page to find your library).
Would you like to donate services?
	If you have services that you would like to donate to help promote and support this site, please get in touch using the contact information below.
Are you a librarian?
	If you are a librarian and would like to contact us, please email at the information below. If you want to change information about your listed library, or add your U.S. public library if it does not appear on this site, then please click here.

Thanks!

Phil Terry

Email Us

   email: showsupport at borrowabook dot org